Surrogacy Counselling
Initial Assessment
The commissioning (genetic) couple, the gestational carrier (surrogate) and her partner if applicable, plus any dependent children over the age of four, of either couple, should attend counselling assessment sessions with an independent counsellor, who will write a report. This counsellor must be a registered psychologist, and psychological testing must be done.
At the time of consultation with the specialist at the fertility clinic, it may be necessary to attend an initial counselling assessment sessions with the counsellor associated with the fertility clinic.
Ongoing Counselling Requirements
The requirements for ongoing contact with the surrogate and her partner include assessments of the surrogate’s preparation for the ongoing pregnancy and birth. Hence, follow up interviews are encouraged at 28 and 36 weeks of the pregnancy; a debriefing session with all parties soon after delivery; and a follow up of all parties about a month post-partum.
These appointments may be with the independent counsellor in her home state, or with the clinic counsellor.
Post Surrogacy Counselling Requirements
The fertility clinic may encourage counselling appointments post surrogacy at about 6-8 weeks post delivery with:
- the gestational carrier (surrogate), by herself
- the gestational carrier’s partner, by himself
- both the male and female together
- the commissioning couple.
Of course, at any time during the process of surrogacy, any or all of the parties may seek counselling.
Medical issues
There is a need for a clear plan beforehand with doctors interstate as to precisely how much they can do or are prepared to do either with ovarian stimulation, hormone tracking or the management of a subsequent pregnancy. This will alleviate the anxiety that surrogates may experience in wondering who does what, when and where. The management of IVF pregnancies including regular blood tests, progesterone support, repeat ultrasounds and so forth, must be made known to surrogates from the outset.